Study of Brain Blood Flow and Neural Activity Related to Balance in Adults Aged 21 to 95

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the connection between brain blood flow, neural function, and balance control across different adult age groups. This study aims to better understand how cerebrovascular health relates to balance and aging by observing neurotypical and cognitively normal younger, middle-aged, and older adults. It is a single-arm, non-randomized, cross-sectional study focused on basic science exploration. Participants will perform a single session of aerobic exercise using a recumbent stepper machine to evaluate how cerebral blood flow changes with exercise. The study includes one visit where researchers assess the cerebrovascular response to exercise. They will also record brain activity with EEG and collect biomechanical data during standing balance tests. Blood samples will be taken for genomic analysis. During the visit, participants will undergo transcranial Doppler ultrasound to measure cerebral blood flow velocity, biomechanical assessments of balance reactions, and EEG to monitor brain coherence after balance challenges. Researchers will measure how the brain and body respond to exercise and balance tasks. The total participation involves two visits, focusing on detailed assessments of brain and balance function related to aging.

Brain Vascular and Neural Function Linked to Balance Across the Adult Lifespan